15 Delicious Christmas Cookie Recipes To Sweeten Your Holiday Season

Last updated on December 14th, 2023

The holiday season is synonymous with sweet treats and festive delights. What better way to celebrate than by baking a variety of delicious Christmas cookies? Here are 15 delightful Christmas cookie recipes that will add a touch of magic to your holiday celebrations.

1. Peppermint Mocha Cookies

Peppermint Mocha Cookies combine the classic flavours of chocolate and peppermint with a hint of coffee. These cookies are perfect for those who love the comforting taste of a peppermint mocha during the holidays.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon instant coffee granules
• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Beat in the egg and peppermint extract.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder and instant coffee.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
• Fold in the crushed candy canes.
• Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.

2. Gingerbread Snowflakes

Gingerbread Snowflakes are a festive twist on the classic gingerbread cookie. These intricately shaped cookies are perfect for decorating and make for charming edible ornaments.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup molasses (also known as black treacle)
• 1 large egg

Instructions:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves and salt.
• In a separate large bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
• Beat in molasses or black treacle and egg until well combined.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
• Divide the dough into two disks, wrap in plastic and chill for at least 2 hours.
• Roll out the dough and cut into snowflake shapes using cookie cutters.
• Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes.

3. Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies

Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies are a perfect balance of tart cranberries and zesty orange in a buttery, crumbly shortbread. These cookies are not only delicious but also add a pop of festive colour to your cookie tray.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
• Zest of one orange

Instructions:

• In a large bowl, cream together butter, powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.
• Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined.
• Fold in the chopped cranberries and orange zest.
• Shape the dough into a log, wrap in plastic and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
• Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
• Slice the chilled dough into rounds and bake for 12-15 minutes.

4. White Chocolate Raspberry Thumbprints

White Chocolate Raspberry Thumbprints are a delightful combination of sweet white chocolate and tangy raspberry jam. These thumbprint cookies are not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavour.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup finely chopped white chocolate
• Raspberry jam for filling

Instructions:

• In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Beat in egg yolks and vanilla extract.
• Gradually add the flour and chopped white chocolate, mixing until the dough comes together.
• Roll the dough into small balls and place on a baking sheet.
• Make an indentation in the centre of each cookie and fill with raspberry jam.
• Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.

5. Eggnog Snickerdoodles

Eggnog Snickerdoodles capture the essence of the season with the warm flavours of eggnog and the classic appeal of snickerdoodle cookies. These soft and chewy treats are sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup eggnog
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions:

• In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Beat in eggs, vanilla extract and eggnog until well combined.
  In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cream of tartar and nutmeg.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  In a small bowl, combine sugar and additional nutmeg for rolling the cookie dough balls.
  Roll dough into balls, coat in the sugar-nutmeg mixture, and place on a baking sheet.
  Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes.

6. Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms

Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms are a festive twist on the classic peanut butter blossoms. These cookies feature a rich chocolate base with a candy cane kiss nestled in the centre, making them a visually stunning addition to your holiday table.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Candy cane kisses

Instructions:

• In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
  In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda and salt.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
• Shape the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet.
• Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes.
• Immediately press a candy cane kiss into the centre of each cookie after removing them from the oven.

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As you prepare these delightful Christmas cookies for your loved ones, don’t forget the importance of presentation. A beautiful tin can make your treats even more special. Consider presenting them in our Personalised Christmas Cookies Cake Tin. This charming tin not only keeps your cookies fresh but also adds a touch of personalised festive flair.

It’s the perfect Christmas gift for loved ones or a sweet treat for yourself. Customise it with your family’s name or a special holiday message for a truly unique touch.

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Now, as we continue our delightful journey through these Christmas Cookie Recipes, let’s dive into another scrumptious treat to sweeten your holiday season.

7. Almond Snowball Cookies

Almond Snowball Cookies, also known as Russian Tea Cakes, are buttery and melt-in-your-mouth treats. Rolled in powdered sugar, these almond-flavoured cookies resemble festive snowballs, making them a charming addition to your holiday cookie assortment.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup finely chopped almonds
• Additional powdered sugar for rolling

Instructions:

• In a large bowl, cream together butter, powdered sugar and almond extract until smooth.
• Gradually add the flour, salt and chopped almonds, mixing until a dough forms.
• Shape the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.
• Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 12-15 minutes.
• Roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar and let them cool completely.

8. Cherry Almond Biscotti

Cherry Almond Biscotti are perfect for dipping into your favourite hot beverage. Loaded with dried cherries and almonds, these twice-baked Italian cookies have a delightful crunch and a burst of fruity flavour.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
• 1 cup almonds, toasted and chopped

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder and salt.
• In a separate bowl, beat eggs and almond extract.
• Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
• Fold in chopped cherries and almonds.
• Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log on a baking sheet.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, then cool for 10 minutes.
• Slice the logs diagonally and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.

9. Pistachio Cranberry Icebox Cookies

Photo Credit : Robbins, Heath

Pistachio Cranberry Icebox Cookies are a delightful combination of buttery cookies studded with vibrant green pistachios and tart cranberries. Slice and bake these festive cookies for a quick and easy treat.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup shelled pistachios, chopped
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped

Instructions:

• In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
• Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined.
• Fold in the chopped pistachios and cranberries.
  Divide the dough in half, shape into logs and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Slice the chilled dough into rounds and bake for 10-12 minutes.

10. Chocolate-Dipped Coconut Macaroons

Chocolate-Dipped Coconut Macaroons are a classic holiday treat that combines chewy coconut with a rich chocolate coating. These bite-sized delights are perfect for coconut lovers and chocolate enthusiasts alike.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 3 cups shredded coconut
• 3/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large egg whites
• Pinch of salt
• 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, melted

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, combine shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract.
• In a separate bowl, beat egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form.
• Gently fold the egg whites into the coconut mixture until well combined.
• Drop rounded tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
• Allow the macaroons to cool. Dip the bottoms in melted chocolate and let them set on parchment paper.

11. Maple Pecan Cookies

Maple Pecan Cookies bring the warm flavours of maple syrup and toasted pecans together in a delightful cookie. These cookies are perfect for those who enjoy the comforting taste of maple during the holiday season.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup pecans, toasted and chopped

Instructions:

• In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Beat in maple syrup, egg and vanilla extract.
• Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined.
• Fold in the toasted and chopped pecans.
• Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes.

12. Mint Chocolate Swirl Cookies

Mint Chocolate Swirl Cookies offer a perfect blend of rich chocolate and refreshing mint. These swirled cookies not only look impressive but also deliver a delightful combination of flavours.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• Crushed candy canes for decoration

Instructions:

• In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and cocoa powder.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
• Divide the dough in half. To one half, add peppermint extract and mix well.
• Roll out both chocolate and mint dough into rectangles and place one on top of the other.
• Roll the stacked dough into a log, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 2 hours.
• Slice the chilled log into rounds and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.
• Once cooled, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed candy canes.

13. Apricot Thumbprint Cookies

Apricot Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful combination of buttery cookie dough and sweet apricot jam. These cookies are not only delicious but also add a burst of fruity flavour to your holiday dessert table.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Apricot jam for filling

Instructions:

• In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Beat in egg yolks and vanilla extract.
• Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together.
• Shape the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet.
  Make an indentation in the centre of each cookie and fill with apricot jam.
• Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.

14. Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Cinnamon Roll Cookies bring the flavours of a classic cinnamon roll into a delightful cookie form. These spiral-shaped treats are not only visually appealing but also deliver the comforting taste of cinnamon.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• Powdered sugar glaze (optional)

Instructions:

• In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder and salt.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
• Divide the dough in half. Roll out each half into a rectangle.
• Sprinkle cinnamon over the dough, then roll each rectangle into a log.
• Chill the logs for at least 2 hours. Slice and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.
• Drizzle with powdered sugar glaze if desired.

15. Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies

Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies are not only adorable but also delicious. These peanut butter cookies are transformed into festive reindeer with the addition of pretzels, chocolate and candy eyes.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Pretzels, chocolate chips and candy eyes for decoration

Instructions:

• In a large bowl, cream together butter, sugar and peanut butter until light and fluffy.
• Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder and salt.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
• Roll the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet.
• Flatten each ball slightly and decorate with pretzels for antlers, chocolate chips for eyes and a red candy for the nose.
• Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.

There you have it – 15 delightful Christmas cookie recipes to make your holiday season even sweeter. Whether you prefer classic flavours or unique twists, these cookies are sure to bring joy to your celebrations. Happy baking!